Austin
A40 Farina Mk I Saloon & Countryman
Yet another
world first from Austin with its then revolutionary "hatchback"
style, designed by Pinin Farina of Italy which gave the model its
name. Its simple clean lines, was as they say a breath of fresh
air. In the countryman version the rear window could be lifted to
improve access. The final production version did not fully reflect
totally the original styling, as the company were unsure that the
public would except all of the ideas. (the MkII was nearer the
original concept). It was competitively priced and with new fresh
styling gained many friends.
It was assembled in many countries from CKD kits, such as
Australia, Mexico and South Africa.
Many of the mechanical components were carried over from the A35.
The 948cc 'A' series powered both the MkI and MkII but in 1962 the
MkII was fitted with the 1098cc engine which continued until the
model was discontinued at the end of 1967. When the MkII version
came out it had wind up windows, improvements in the interior trim
and a new facia. Outwardly the most obvious sign was the full
frontal grill incorporating the lights.
A40
Mk I Countryman
Date
when launched Saloon 1958-1961 Countryman late 1959-1961
Total produced 169,612 Saloons & 21,654 Countryman
Engine
948 cc 34 bhp at 4,750 rpm Max torque 50lbs/ft at 2,000
rpm
Length
12ft 0.3ins Width 4ft 11.4ins Height 4ft 4.8ins
Wheel Base 6ft 11ins Track front 3ft 11.5ins rear 3ft
11ins
Austin
A40 Farina Mk II Saloon & Countryman
Date
when launched Oct 1961 (948cc) Mid 1962 (1098cc)
Discontinued in 1967
Total produced 172,798
Engine
948cc 37 bhp at 5,000 rpm Max torque 50lbs/ft at 2,500 rpm
1098cc 48 bhp at 5,100 rpm Max torque 60lbs/ft at 2,500
rpm
Length
12ft 1ins Width 4ft 11.4ins Height 4ft 9.5ins
Wheel
Base 7ft 3.1ins Track front 3ft 11ins rear 3ft 11ins
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If
you own a A40 Farina model please send me pictures and a short
history on the vehicle so that I may add it to the
site.